Egypt to send imams to New Zealand to promote moderate Islam

Tuesday 05 Apr 2016 - 11:21 Makkah mean time-27-6-1437

Image from newstalkzb

Cairo, (IINA) - Egypt's government is sending Cairo-educated imams to "take control" of New Zealand mosques and Islamic centres in a new drive to reduce radicalization and counter extremism, Newstalk ZB, New Zealand talk radio reported.
The imams will spend up to three years working alongside local mosque leaders promoting moderate Islam and tolerance.
One imam is already working at a Wellington mosque and three more Al-Azhar University trained Imams are applying for work visas.
From his side, Egyptian Ambassador to New Zealand, Tarek Al-Wasimy said explaining true Islam and promoting its peaceful message is an important first step in protecting the world from militant Islam and terrorism.
He said they don't want anything to happen here like what's happened in Paris, Belgium, Madrid or London.
Islamic Women's Council spokesperson Anjum Rahman said she's not aware of anything that would lead them to believe the imams were needed here, but they are welcome. 
"We would always welcome scholars and people that wanted to work in the community, who are willing to work in a positive way and to take the time to understand the local community and the local culture," she said.
SM/IINA

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